JIM-DANDY!

While the two courts in the Near West Side park will directly benefit the kids who play on them, they will also help the environment. As part of Onondaga County's Save the Rain initiative, the courts were poured with porous pavement; indeed, they are the first green courts in the city. "These courts are quieter, so you won't hear any complaints from the neighbors," said County Executive Joanie Mahoney to the kids, half-joking. "But you'll also find that there won't be any puddles after it rains because the water will be absorbed into the pavement."